Putin's Right-Hand Man's Absence Sparks Speculation
The notable absence of a senior diplomat from a pivotal Kremlin meeting and the G20 delegation has led to rumors that he may have lost favor with President Vladimir Putin.
Analyzing Kremlin Hierarchy Through Public Appearances
Historically, Western analysts studied state events such as military parades on Red Square to decipher the Kremlin power structure by observing officials' positions and body language. This method remains relevant today as experts examine recent meetings for clues.
Security Council Meeting Raises Questions
During Wednesday's critical session of Russia's Security Council, President Putin instructed top officials to draft plans for a potential nuclear weapons test—a sensitive issue requiring trusted participants.
"Not one you'd expect a trusted lieutenant to miss."
However, Sergei Lavrov, the long-serving foreign minister and a permanent council member, was notably absent. Reports from the Russian business newspaper Kommersant suggest this absence was "coordinated."
Context and Implications
Lavrov's exclusion from such high-level discussions and international delegations fuels speculation about shifts in the Kremlin's inner circle dynamics.
"The footage present-day Kremlinologists are currently pouring over is from Wednesday's landmark meeting of Russia's Security Council."
Additional Note
In a related mention, a British individual who volunteered to spy for Russia has been jailed, highlighting ongoing espionage tensions.
Author's summary: Sergei Lavrov's recent exclusion from key Kremlin events signals a possible erosion of his influence within Putin's inner circle, reflecting shifting power dynamics.
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